Demolition Risk Assessment

Last Updated: February 3rd, 2023/Views: 1799/3.3 min read/

Demolition in an infrastructure department refers to the process of tearing down or removing an existing building, structure or infrastructure such as bridges, roads, or other public works. The purpose of demolition can range from redevelopment or replacement of the existing infrastructure to removing safety hazards or outdated structures. The infrastructure department is typically responsible for coordinating and overseeing the demolition process, ensuring that it is carried out safely and efficiently while minimizing disruption to the surrounding community.

Content

Operations

Planning and preparation: This involves obtaining necessary permits and licenses, preparing a site plan, conducting environmental and structural assessments, and developing a demolition plan.
Site preparation: This involves securing the site, removing hazardous materials, disconnecting utilities, and preparing the surrounding area for the demolition process.
Demolition: This involves physically tearing down the structure using heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes. The method of demolition will depend on the size and type of structure, as well as the surrounding environment.
Debris removal: This involves removing the debris from the site and disposing of it in a safe and responsible manner.
Site restoration: This involves cleaning up the site and restoring it to its original state, or preparing it for redevelopment.

Hazards

Structural instability: The demolition of a building or structure can result in partial or complete collapse, which poses a risk to workers and the surrounding community.
Dust and debris: Dust and debris generated during demolition can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems, as well as damage to nearby properties.
Noise pollution: The use of heavy machinery and equipment during demolition can result in high levels of noise, which can be disruptive to the surrounding community and potentially cause hearing damage to workers.
Environmental pollution: Demolition can result in the release of hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and other toxins into the environment, which can pose a risk to public health and the environment.
Traffic disruptions: Demolition work can result in road closures and detours, causing traffic disruptions and potential safety hazards for drivers and pedestrians.
Fire risk: The demolition of a building or structure can result in sparks and heat, which can increase the risk of fire.

Controls

Structural instability:

- Conducting thorough inspections and assessments of the building or structure prior to demolition
- Securing the site to prevent unauthorized access
- Implementing proper traffic control and barriers to protect workers and the surrounding community
- Implementing a collapse management plan in the event of an unexpected collapse

Dust and debris:

- Wetting down the demolition site to minimize dust
- Implementing proper ventilation and dust suppression systems
- Providing workers with respiratory protection, such as masks or respirators
- Properly disposing of hazardous materials, such as asbestos, to prevent environmental pollution

Noise pollution:

- Implementing noise barriers or mufflers on heavy machinery and equipment
- Scheduling demolition work during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to the surrounding community
- Providing workers with hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs

Environmental pollution:

- Conducting environmental assessments to identify potential hazards, such as asbestos or lead
- Properly managing and disposing of hazardous materials, such as asbestos or lead, in accordance with local regulations
- Implementing proper site controls to prevent runoff and minimize the risk of environmental pollution

Traffic disruptions:

- Implementing proper traffic control measures, such as detours and road closures, to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians
- Coordinating with local authorities to minimize traffic disruptions and potential safety hazards

Fire risk::

- Conducting regular inspections of electrical and mechanical systems to identify potential fire hazards
- Implementing fire suppression systems and fire alarms to minimize the risk of fire
- Providing workers with fire-resistant clothing and fire extinguishers for personal protection

These measures are not exhaustive and may vary depending on the specific demolition project and local regulations. The employer is responsible for identifying the specific health and safety risks associated with the demolition project and implementing appropriate mitigation measures to ensure the safety of workers and the surrounding community.

Demolition Risk Assessment

Operations

Hazards

Controls

Recovery Measures

Good Practices

Incidents

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